Nearly 400 Utica Community Schools junior high school students recently rolled up their sleeves to exploring their future careers.

The students took part in a unique hands-on career exploration event called MiCareerQuest Southeast, the region’s largest interactive career exploration event featuring more than 100 area companies.

“I liked that the field trip was very hands on and interactive,” said Jeannette Junior High School 8th grader Allison Felice. “We didn't just have to listen to someone speak; we got to actually try out the jobs."

The goal, according to UCS teachers, was to give students a new way to experience their career interests and help link the future workforce to business and industry.

“As 8th grade students it is not always easy for them to make connections to their future careers, but this field trip really allowed for them to make those connections,” said Jeannette teacher Kristina Robinson. “They returned from the field with excitement for what their future job opportunities might be.”

The hands-on activities provided students a glimpse of available careers in the health sciences, construction, informational technology and advanced technology. The event showcased more than 125 of the highest-demand occupations.
Students were able to perform simulated tonsillectomies, build brick walls, direct a tv show talk show, scale construction beams or perform CPR on an infant.

Shelby Junior High School 8th Grader Isabel Lee worked with a microbiologist to detect an infectious disease.

“This field trip made me realize there are so many more options in the medical field than just surgery,” she said.